Responsible Resource Development a Positive Step Towards a More Sustainable Electricity Future for Canada

OTTAWA, April 17, 2012 /CNW/ - The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) is pleased to learn additional details of the federal government's plans to modernize regulatory review processes for major economic projects through today's release of a plan for Responsible Resource Development.  

"The proposals released today by Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver, and in particular the pledges to reduce duplication and improve project approval timelines, will modernize Canada's federal regulatory regime, enable the needed renewal of electricity infrastructure and bring Canada a step closer to a more sustainable electricity system that delivers positive environmental, social and economic benefits to Canadians," said Jim Burpee, President and CEO of CEA.

A recent Conference Board of Canada report titled Shedding Light on the Economic Impact of Investing in Electricity Infrastructure projects that an investment of $347.5 billion from 2011 to 2030 is required to meet electricity demand and power Canada's future.

Canada is a global leader in clean energy production, with over 80% of its electricity generated from non-emitting sources.  Hydropower and nuclear, along with renewable energy such as wind and solar, emit few if any greenhouse gasses (GHG). However, much of Canada's electricity system was built 30 to 60 years ago, and now needs to be renewed in order to supply safe, reliable, sustainable and economically-priced electricity to a growing economy.

To read the Government of Canada's announcement on its plan for Responsible Resource Development, as part of Economic Action Plan 2012, click here.

To access the Government of Canada's website on Responsible Resource Development click here.

About the CEA

Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) members generate, transmit and distribute electrical energy to industrial, commercial, residential and institutional customers across Canada every day.  From vertically integrated electric utilities, to power marketers, to the manufacturers and suppliers of materials, technology and services that keep the industry running smoothly -- all are represented by this national industry association.

Tracy Walden
Director, Communications
Tel.: [phone]
Cell: 613-796-4837
Email: [email protected]

Samara Wiseman
Communications Officer
Tel.: [phone]
Cell: 613-355-4022
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